Photograph Black Bears with professional photographer John Slonina. We will be visiting one of the best places in North America to photograph and observe Wild Black Bears. Expect to shoot thousands of bear photos along with other other wildlife. Every year we have been able to photograph multiple bears including cubs, yearlings, and adults. We plan to photograph several different age groups and behaviors.

We will be photographing the bears from the ground. We we will also have access a viewing deck.

This allows you to get some bear pictures at eye level even when they are in the trees. The above two photos were taken with a wide angle lens.

We also will be on the lookout for other wildlife that visits the refuge and the surrounding areas including Songbirds, Chipmunks, Several species of woodpeckers, Hummingbirds, Red Squirrels, and on rare occasions Wolf.

Please note: Wildlife is extremely unpredictable. In the past I have had an extremely high success rate but we can’t guarantee we will see any particular species. The last few years I have had a bear within photo range almost every hour on this tour. Usually multiple bears at once some within 20 feet.

Since we will be shooting a high volume of pictures. Please bring lots of cards or film. We also recommend you bring an portable external hard drive to back up your images. Some of last years participants took over 5000 bear photos.

This includes hotel, instruction, transportation from hotel to refuge, and sanctuary fees ($175 day / $700 value).

DEPOSIT:

You can pay in full or leave a deposit.

$400 per person.

PAYMENT:

Payment can be made by check to Slonina Photography.

We also accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express.

If you prefer to use credit card you can call our office at (508) 839-5111 or use the online shopping cart.

Who Should Attend:

All skill levels are welcome from a beginner to professional.

Anyone with an interest in wildlife photography (Digital or Film).

Group Size:

Our groups are small in size this one is limited to 5 people. We will work with each participant to provide complete, informative, helpful lessons. This also ensures that no question is left unanswered.

Before and after each workshop we will assess each participants needs, interests and skills so we can teach techniques that will help each participant.

Itinerary:

Friday July 27:

Meet at Base Hotel by 6pm. Group meeting and introductions then and bear safety program. We will discuss bear behavior and how to properly photograph and meter the bears to make sure you get the proper exposure.

Saturday-Monday July 28-30th:

We will have access to the refuge for 4 days. We will have multiple trips back and forth to the refuge to take advantage of the best light for photography. The day is paced to maximize photo opportunities and the schedule will be flexible to maximize getting the best light.

Tuesday July 31:

We will have our early AM photo session then return to the hotel for checkout. This will be the official end of the tour. Participants are welcome to join me for a return visit to the sanctuary later that day (no additional fees).

What's Included: Instruction and all sanctuary fees ($700 value).

Not included: Hotel We will have a block of rooms reserved (approx $50 night). they are several lodging and camping options.

On location, John will demonstrate how you can best use your equipment. We will do our best to help you get beautiful professional high dynamic quality images which will make gorgeous prints on your wall.

Before and after each workshop we will access each participants needs, interests and skills so we can teach techniques that will help each participant. Whether you are a beginner or seasoned pro we will help you grow as a photographer.

John Slonina is a professional nature photographer who has been photographing for over 25 years. He estimates he has taken over 250,000 photos. John has a love of natural history as well. You will receive information on photo technique and the natural world. Understanding the natural world not only increases your appreciation of nature but also helps you become a better nature photographer.